如何在美国获取U-Visa.pdfVIP

10 U-visas: Victims of Criminal Activity1 By Kavitha Sreeharsha 2 Introduction U-visas are available for victims of sexual assault who may not qualify for VAWA self-petitioning. Some victims of sexual assault and other crimes may not qualify for VAWA self-petitioning relief for several reasons. The VAWA self-petition requires the abusive party to be the spouse, parent, or the adult son or daughter of the victim. Many sexual assault assailants are strangers to their victim. Many more are acquainted but may not be married. A VAWA self-petitioner’s abuser must also be a U.S. Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident and many sexual assault assailants, even if married to the victim, may not be a Lawful Permanent Resident (commonly referred to as a greencard holder) or U.S. Citizen. Immigrant victims who do not qualify for relief under VAWA may still qualify for other types of immigration relief such as a U-visa, a visa created to provide immigration status to crime victims. Potential U-visa applicants are encouraged to seek qualified legal counsel before filing a U-visa application. The Violence Against Women Act of 2000 The Violence Against Women Act of 2000 (“VAWA 2000”)3 created the U-visa for immigrant victims of criminal activity. This visa offers temporary lawful status to victims of certain criminal activity if the victim has suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.4 The victim must have information about the crime and a law enforcement official (e.g., police, prosecutor) or a judge must certify that the victim has been helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful in investigating or prosecuting the crime.5 The purpose of this legislation was to: create a new nonimmigrant visa classification that will strengthen the ability of law enfo